Payton Pritchard becomes just third Celtic to reach stunning playoff feat
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images The Boston Celtics are heading back home with control of their series against the Philadelphia 76ers, leading 3-1 after a dominant 128-96 win on Sunday night. That result secured two road victories and leaves Boston in a commanding position, with history showing only 4% of teams trailing 3-1 manage to complete a comeback. Amid that statement performance, Payton Pritchard stole the spotlight as the game’s leading scorer, delivering a display that placed him in a rare category in franchise playoff history.
Payton Pritchard enters exclusive Celtics company with 32-point effort Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images Pritchard became just the third player in Celtics playoff history to score 30 or more points off the bench, finishing with 32 in a decisive Game 4 showing. According to ESPN, only Kevin McHale, who achieved the feat twice, and Eddie House have previously reached that mark for Boston. Both McHale and House played important roles in championship-winning teams.
Pritchard’s scoring burst provided a major boost to Boston’s offence, maintaining intensity even with the second unit and stretching Philadelphia’s defensive structure. That impact helped the Celtics build a decisive advantage, reinforcing their position as they look to close out the series on home court. Jayson Tatum and Payton Pritchard reach rare playoff scoring milestone together Jayson Tatum and Pritchard also combined for a historic night from long range and scoring output.
The pair became just the eighth duo in NBA playoff history to record at least 30 points and five three-pointers each in the same game. ESPN noted they are the first teammates to achieve that since Jalen Brunson and Luka Doncic in 2022. Read more: Alperen Sengun’s verdict adds fuel to controversy over Deandre Ayton ejection call Victor Wembanyama hints at frustration with NBA after Spurs beat Trail Blazers in Game 4 David McMenamin raises two concerning scenarios over Kevin Durant’s rehab before Game 4